If you made it through the holiday season without accumulating hoards of stuff, congratulations, you’re ahead of the game. Since those well-meaning Mayans and their oooh the world is going to end prophesy left us a little, shall we say, not-entirely-disappointed, there’s much to look forward to in 2013. And credit that brush with the apocalypse for resetting many of our personal and collective priorities. I mean, we could have been obliterated by an errant asteroid, magnetic pole shifts, or a vengeful race of aliens…and the fact that we somehow survived has lightened the load a little, even if just slightly. Perhaps you’ve begun to notice this lightness by finding more meaning in experiences rather than things. Or maybe you’re taking more time to smell those roses…You’re in good company, as you’ll see a lot more emphasis on experiences as well as a few other important eco options trending this year. Read on for our top eco trend predictions for 2013.

1. Quality: The word quality has come to mean the same as “expensive,” “indulgent,” even (gasp) “elite.” But that’s not accurate. While high quality items may often be more of an investment, they’re worth it. In fact, I’m calling it: the word “quality” is going to be this year’s new black–no matter what color it comes in. You’ll see a lot more emphasis on making quality investments in a number of areas—be that in your food and health choices, products, services or experiences. There are more reasons than ever to stop choosing the cheaper items that soon end up in landfills and cheaper quality foods that send our bodies into downward spirals. The healthier we are, the less likely we are to feel those impulses to buy poor quality products in the first place. Choose quality.
2. Less: Like the upturn of quality, we’ll also start to see a lot more…of “less.” Whether that’s our own personal commitments to purchasing fewer items, or eco-minded businesses thinning out their offerings, 2013 will see a growing number of conscientious approaches to better uses of resources emphasizing less of an impact on the environment (such as fewer transport miles for food), and just how much more there can be in a whole lot less.
3. Local: Quality + Less in many cases = Local. This growing trend is most noticeable in our food supply: farmers markets, CSA programs, community gardens, etc. Interest in local food will continue to grow and 2013 will also see interests in local business like credit unions instead of large banks, small retailers instead of big box stores and my personal favorite: the staycation.Cheaper and less stressful, people are going to enjoy more local parks and attractions getting to know and adore their local community.
4. Fracking Out: Thanks to celebs like Mark Ruffalo and Robert Redford, along with the movie Promised Land, fracking is a trending topic. (So much so in fact that it toppled “climate change” in Google searches last year.) If you don’t know what fracking is yet, here’s a little 101 on its effects on our environment and our health. Be on the lookout for more activism opportunities and campaigns to stop this environmental nightmare.
5. Non-GMO: Another source of activism is genetically modified foods. A contentious issue for some time, the failure of California’s Prop 37 measure in November  led to a number of viral Facebook campaigns and a groundswell of DIY labeling on foods suspected of containing GMOs. More brands, retailers and restaurants will be featuring non-GMO labeling and ingredients for better health and a safer environment.
6. Eco/voluntourism: Everyone needs a little time away. But it doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet or regional communities. So be on the lookout for eco resorts and tours when planning your next get away. Even working vacations such as volunteering on an organic farm or helping to plant trees in deforested areas are becoming quite popular. Experiences like these are not only memorable, but they can teach you great skills that can dramatically improve your quality of life.
7. Co-op housing: Cooperative living is nothing new, but it’s trending more than ever right now says Oz Ragland, a co-housing expert. That may be because of the sluggish economy in recent years, but it’s also incredibly beneficial on the environment (9 people use my kitchen!). It also provides support and safety as well as creative and inspiring opportunities.
8. DIY: Homesteaders and urban farmers have taught us a thing or two in recent years about how to eat, and now you can look for more cottage industries in fashion, personal care and the art world ala Etsy. And mirroring that rise is a robust DIY culture emerging ever so rapidly and earnestly. Sure it’s great to support a small-scale producer, but even better when it’s you.

Keep in touch with Jill on Twitter @jillettinger

Image: Pink Sherbet Photography

The post Quality is the New Black: 8 Eco Trend Predictions for 2013 appeared first on EcoSalon.

When packing for a weekend at Hotel Aire de Bardenas in the North of Spain, take inspiration from the natural surroundings and modern decor.

Let that special sense of Spanish minimalism guide you and fill your bag with savvy eco-duds from Spanish designers like Adolfo Dominguez, EcoAlf and Skunkfunk.

Adolfo Dominguez Waistcoat
This cool vest, from Spanish designer Adolfo Dominguez’ “Green Me” collection is a sure way to add some edge to a simple outfit. If you want to go all in, get the matching skirt and you’ll have a modern take on a suit.
On sale for approx. $78, Adolfo Dominguez

Begona Rentero Earrings Aspen, Moka
Spanish artist Begona Rentero makes eco-friendly jewelry inspired by flora and sea fauna. She makes her own papers from silk, cotton and other fibers, hardening them through a special process and dyeing them with natural dyes so that they can be worn for everyday use.
$48, The Island Gallery

LBD by Skunkfunk
This black dress by humorously-named sustainable Spanish brand Skunkfunk is a great travel companion, thanks to a comfy fabric made from 95% bamboo and 5% spandex. The buttons down the front are a fun detail that adds a lot of personality to the dress.
On sale for $97, Skunkfunk

Park Avenue Shopping Bag by EcoAlf
This large tote bag has two front pockets and two vertical pockets with silver-coloured zippers and gold-coloured pullers plus three interior pockets in different sizes – lots of room for your things, in other words. It’s made of nylon recycled from discarded fishing nets.
Approx. $260, EcoAlf

Duna Boots by El Naturalista
Spanish eco-brand Naturalista is known for their irreverent takes on classic shoes with natural rubber soles. These black Duna boots are the perfect balance of minimal and eclectic.
Approx. $215, El Naturalista

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We’ve got sustainable versions of 7 gorgeous belt trends spotted on the runways.

Belts are one of the season’s hottest accessories, seen all over the runways. They are also an easy way to dress up an outfit, giving it that little extra something that will set you apart from the crowd. Leather is and will continue to be a topic of controversy. If the leather is sourced and treated sustainably and the belt carefully made by hand, it’s a good investment piece since natural materials like leather do last for a very long time.

The fun thing about belts right now is that there are many different styles from which to choose — from ladylike double-wrap belts to bondage-like harness belts. Here are seven of our favorites.

Double Long Salmon Skin Belt by Leila Hafzi
Double-wrapped belts were seen at Victoria Beckham’s show, perfectly complementing her ladylike dresses with an edge. This one by Leila Hafzi is made from vegetable dyed salmon skin, a sustainable alternative to leather.
$110, Juno & Jove 

Bow Skinny Belt by Brave Leather
Almost every single look at the Burberry Prorsum show featured a bow belt, in a variety of colors. While it’s still cold out, wear it on top of a jacket or trench coat, and for summer pair it with a dress or light blazer. We like pairing this belt style (available in a rainbow of colors) with an outfit that is not-so-sweet for a nice contrast. Brave Leather belts are hand crafted in Canada by skilled craftspeople, in a safe, ethical factory.
$60, Brave Leather 

Wide Leather Belt by De Palma
Celine — which still seems to be every fashion editor’s favorite line — showed wide belts, worn low on the hips with wide-leg trousers and simple boxy tops — a look that I will personally copy this spring (while regretting what I said about low-waisted pants earlier). This simple, understated wide leather belt is hand made in California using vegetable-tanned leather coated with beeswax. Available in four different colors.
$143, De Palma Leather 

Kim White Equestrian Belt
This look by Paul & Joe perfectly shows how to take the too-sweet edge off a girly summer dress. Cinch the waist with a corset-style wide belt in a metallic hue. This one by Kim White is handmade in the U.S. and has a gorgeous pewter-finish with just the right amount of shine.
$110, Kim White

Ashley Watson Obi Belt
Zac Posen’s Asian-inspired collection featured several different styles of traditional (and not-so-traditional) obi wrap belts. For a look that will work in real life, try this quilted one by Ashley Watson, made from super soft, guilt-free reclaimed leather. Also available in brown suede and light tan.
$124, Beklina

Leather Harness by Norisol Ferrari
Bondage-like leather harnesses were, somewhat surprisingly, seen on the runways of designers like Herve Leger and Monique L’huillier (as seen above). We like how a tough piece like this can add a definite edge to an outfit. This custom handcrafted leather harness by Norisol Ferrari was designed in collaboration with harness master Zana Bayne — she made the one Lady Gaga wears in her You and I video.
From $1200, AhaLife 

Handmade Native American-Inspired Beaded Belt
Our bet as to what all the fashion bloggers will be wearing this season is a Native American-inspired beaded belt. They look great with low-waisted denim and summer dresses alike. Support the people whose heritage inspired this look and order yours from Native Arts Trading, who custom makes hand-beaded belts (and hat bands) to order.
From $395, Native Arts Trading.

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How to wear polka dots without looking like a 50s pinup.

Polka dots. You’ve seen them on the runways but aren’t quite sure how to wear them without looking like a 50s pinup or your grandma’s apron. Fear not, there are plenty of ways that this classic pattern can fit into a stylish eco-fashionista’s wardrobe.

Stella Wedge by Calleen Cordero, $455, Juno & Jove // Stella Stars Necklace, $128, Hovey Lee // Lina Rennell Recycled Leather belt, $165, Beklina // Polka Dot Sweater, Approx. $550, Chinti & Parker // Stella Vino clutch by Raven Kauffman, $325, Juno & Jove // Baby Toes Cactus polish, $12.50, Priti NYC // A Line Mini Skirt, on sale for $104, Edun

Let’s start with a Polka Dot Sweater from Chinti & Parker, a basic, versatile piece perfect for a first envoy into this polka dot trend. The mixing of patterns is very hot right now. Don’t be afraid to try ones that you wouldn’t think at first glance will go together — that’s where the magic happens. Mix your polka dot pattern with more pattern, like this woven mini skirt or a bright floral pattern or – why not – a smaller polka dot print on a dark background.

Stars are all the rage right now and just happen to be a great complement to those dots. This necklace from Hovey Lee will ensure your look is more tough than sweet. Add visual interest with with a burgundy bag by Raven Kauffman and shoes by Calleen Cordero. Finish off the look by adding some bright yellow – one of the hottest colors this spring – accents like a belt and nail polish.

If you’re still not convinced that you can rock the polka dots, try a dotty manicure (here’s a tutorial on how to do it yourself).

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When packing for a stay at the Eco Pod in Scotland, take inspiration from the interiors and mix black, leather and metal with natural materials & hues.

Pack for a weekend at the Eco Pod in Scotland by filling your bag with a mix of Scottish and American eco-design. Take inspiration from the interiors of the geodesic dome pods and mix black leather and metal with natural materials and hues.

Erica Weiner Circles & Squares Necklace
Made from a long vintage brass chain threaded through a series of gunmetal-plated brass cubes with hollowed-out circles, this necklace by Erica Weiner echoes the shapes found in the exteriors of the Eco Pod hotel. It’s geometric shapes create a nice contrast with the neutral garments.
$75, Erica Weiner

Right As Rain T-shirt
Taking the idea of natural beauty to the next level the team behind Right as Rain came up with the unique concept of planting and harvest shirts, thus leaving the design to the unpredictability of nature. After the t-shirt has been planted in the ground for two to three months they are “harvested” and dried and then they are ready for wearing.
Approx. $325, Right As Rain

Izzy Lane Shetland Herringbone Zipped Coat
This zipped coat in a black and camel herringbone fabric will keep you warm through that British winter. Made from a rare breed of Shetland wool from the Izzy Lane flock of 600 rescued sheep, this coat is truly one-of-a-kind.
Approx. $520, Izzy Lane

Henrietta Ludgate Leather Skirt
Scottish luxury women’s wear designer, Henrietta Ludgate is known for her distinct structural aesthetic, and minimalist design, as well as for channeling her Scottish Heritage into her collection. The entire collection is produced locally, supporting Scottish craftsmanship.
$603, Yoox

Melange Hoodie Scarf / Alpaca Wrap by Mayu
This chunky knit alpaca scarf is the perfect size to wrap up with and in case you can’t find a hat, it’s got a super cute, oversized hood to keep you warm. Handknit by artisans in Peru with the highest quality pure, eco-friendly alpaca fiber.
$140, Mayu

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LA shows the love for local designers, artists and makers of food.

This past weekend, local makers of food, fashion and art gathered at The California Market Center in LA for Unique LA’s Local Love event — the largest independent design show in the country. As a relatively new East Coast transplant, I welcomed the opportunity to meet and mingle with designers and makers on my new home-turf. The products at the show were all made in the U.S., so all the dollars spent during the weekend went straight towards stimulating LA’s design economy.

There was plenty of love-themed merchandise on display, perhaps because this was the perfect opportunity to buy a last-minute Valentine’s gift. We particularly liked the LA Love tees by MNKR and the sweet linen heart coin purses by Yellow Wallpaper.

Of course there were lots of cute tees and onesies for the little ones, emblazoned with everything from squirrels, whales and hearts, like at Jasper Wren, to LA-centric statements like the “I live and cry in LA” onesie from Kira.

The first thing that caught my eye when I entered the space (perhaps because it was right by the entrance door) was a tipi, surrounded by pillows, towels, book ends and coasters adorned with lovely graphic prints, all handmade in LA by Wolfum.

My nose directed me to my next favorite — coconut wax candles by Queen Bee’s Hive, scented with spa-grade essential oils. Topanga Candle Company uses vintage vessels such as tins, food containers and film canisters to hand pour the wax into, a creative way to give these objects a new life. You can even bring in your own vessel and they will make it into a candle for you.

Another company that creatively reuses our old stuff is My T-shirt Pillow who, as the name suggests, takes old tees and makes them into cozy pillows. I also loved the recycled cashmere scarves, made from thrifted sweaters, by Creature Cashmere and Stella Neptune.

There was a ton of great jewelry on display — some of my favorite were an action-provoking necklace in black letters by MNKR, a poetic banner necklace with butterflies by Fruition, message necklaces by Solstice LTD, recycled metal pieces by Tiffany Kunz, bold color and ceramic pieces by Kyyote, and pendant necklaces by Love Nail Tree (that camera is for all you bloggers out there).

For the boys — and the girls who steal their clothing — there were bow ties in all sorts of colors and materials by Pocket Square Clothing and wood eyewear by Sire’s Crown. And a new favorite, Hepp’s White Truffle Salt is something I can’t live without.

I was thrilled to see the kind of creativity and high level of design that comes out of Los Angeles. Shopping locally means that you are directly supporting this industry of small-scale designers. They are often the ones who push the envelope and give us the unexpected. That is something we need to cherish and of course, show the love to.

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Your Weekend Bag for a stay at the Treehotel in the North of Sweden includes local eco-labels and modern takes on Swedish classics — designed to keep you warm.

When packing for a weekend at the Treehotel, a gathering of fantastical dwellings nestled high up in the trees of Northern Sweden, you need to keep in mind that Nordic winters are just a tad colder than most of us are used to. Embrace Swedish style with local eco-labels and updates on classics like clogs, a Sami parka and Lovikka mittens. It may also be a good idea to pack a thermos and fill it with one of Swedes’ favorite warming winter beverages — glögg or vargtass, a mix of vodka and lingonberry juice.

Thin Finn Dry Flat Selvage Denim
Swedish denim brand Nudie’s The Dry Selvage line is a special concept made from select selvage denim from Japan, Italy and Turkey, featuring the highest denim qualities — denim with cashmere, hemp and organic cotton, and so on. Styles are all unisex, and the Thin Finn is one particularly favored by the ladies.
Approx. $340, Nudie Jeans Co.

Fjällräven Luhkka Cape
We love this Luhkka Cape, inspired by a traditional Sami garment, by classic Swedish outdoor brand Fjällräven. Even if there is a snow storm, you will have to leave your treehouse to eat, use the facilities or warm up in the sauna. The lightly insulated G-1000 material provides protection against rain, snow, sleet and bitter winds, and the large kangaroo pocket in front is great for keeping your hands warm and toasty. Best of all, this cape will look just as good in the city as it does in the Nordic wilderness.
$299, Fjällräven

Hildur Cashmere Cardigan
If you go to the Treehotel, chances are you came to relax. This cozy, slightly over-size cashmere cardigan by Swedish eco-label Righteous Fashion will certainly help you do that. There’s enough fabric that you can almost wrap yourself in it like a blanket. Handmade in Nepal from 100% Fair-Made Cashmere Wool.
Approx. $420, Righteous Fashion

Shearling Clog Boot
What’s more Swedish than a clog? This updated take on the classic everyday footwear has a shearling lining that is sure to keep your toes warm when trudging through the snow. Sven’s Clogs are handmade with pride in a 36-year-old factory in Chisago City, Minnesota. What we like most is that you can choose the style, leather option and color, as well as the base color to make your own perfect clog.
$360, Sven’s Clogs

 Lovikka Mittens
Every Swedish kid goes through many pairs — usually knitted by a grandmother — of these traditional Sami-style mittens during their childhood. They are supposedly easy to make if you feel like taking on a DIY project (try this pattern). If not, they can be purchased from Swedish arts and crafts stores, perhaps a good souvenir to bring back from your trip?
Approx. $45, Hantverkstan

Ambika Boutique Front Fold Hat
Ok, so it’s not Swedish, but we so love this fluffy hat with front and earflaps, made with friendly fur. On her farm in Upstate New York, designer Ambika Conroy raises angora rabbits that are shorn every three months according to their natural cycle. The fibers are then hand-carded and spun into the yarn Ambika uses to create her designs. Best of all, because of the angora rabbits’ long fibers, it doesn’t shed.
$275, Ambika Boutique

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Spread the love this Valentine’s Day by dressing up in head-to-toe red, and adding in a sprinkle of hearts and roses.

However you feel about Valentine’s Day this year —  giddy writing love letters or turning up the volume on that breakup-tunes mixtape — it gives us a chance to break away from the ordinary. And when it comes to fashion, it’s a good excuse for dressing head-to-toe in red and adding in a sprinkle of hearts and roses.

Orla Kiely Prom Dress
This sweet little sleeveless dress by Orla Kiely has a gathered skirt and bow. The pattern, which is actually small coffee cups keeps it from being too cutesy. Made from 100% organic, Fair Trade certified cotton in India.
Approx. $94, People Tree

Tiny Heart Necklace
This tiny heart necklace is sweet and simple, a discreet way to whisper to the world that you still believe in love. Handcrafted in San Francisco, by designer Kris Nations, using recycled 14k or sterling overlay.
$35, BTC Elements

Erica Weiner Sweetheart Necklace
When Erica Weiner found a small quantity of these vintage heart necklaces from the 70s, she thought they seemed to just ache to be inscribed with a message. Make your perfect Valentine’s statement and write your message with teeny tiny letter stamps.
$65-80, Erica Weiner

Apple & Bee Hearts Tote
With inside pockets and lots of great compartments, this super practical organic cotton tote will make a great shopping companion, spreading the message of love wherever you go.
$37, Apple & Bee

Hovey Lee Allott Necklace
This elegant heart-shaped pendant is designed for everyday wear, yet the genuine pink peach shell, lends it a unique glowy sheen. Available with 14kt gold-filled  or sterling silver chain.
$76, Hovey Lee

Alkemie Single Rose Ring
Roses are the ultimate symbol for love, and unlike a dozen red ones this ring will not fade. Handmade in Los Angeles, using 100% reclaimed metal and Austrian Crystal. Available in silver patina as well.
$154, Alkemie

Pink/Red Heart Lady Dragon Shoes
These new Anglomania Lady Dragon shoes by Vivienne Westwood and Melissa brings a more glitzy side with gold edged mirrored hearts that make your feet ready to party. Made from Melissa’s signature earth-friendly rubber.
$230, Vivienne Westwood

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Your weekend bag for a stay at the Pantone Hotel — versatile basics in bright solid colors.

When packing for a weekend at the Pantone Hotel in Brussels, go with the theme and bring colorful basics that ensure that you blend well into the surroundings. It’s a bit chilly in Brussels right now, so versatile basics that will keep you warm is a must.

Organic Woven Scarf – Pantone 144
A big scarf is a must-have when you travel anywhere. This one, by fairtrade fashion company Indigenous Designs shines on a bright shade of orange (Pantone 144) and dyed using low-impact, eco-friendly dyes.
$19, Indigenous Designs

Organic Sweater with Tail – Pantone 3945
This lemon yellow (Pantone 3945) sweater by Organic by John Patrick is longer in the back and shorter in the front, perfect for matching with anything from your favorite travel tights to a fancy skirt.
$212, Otte

Braided Hat with Tassels – Pantone 290
With earflaps and fun braided tassels, this bright blue (Pantone 290) hat is a fun addition to your cold-weather wardrobe. It’s hand knit by formerly disadvantaged mothers in Njabini, Kenya.
$26, Njabini Apparel

Baggu Backpack – Pantone 184
This neon pink (Pantone 184) backpack is made from 100% recycled cotton duck. It’s great for carrying all those essentials with you while exploring Brussels. If pink is not your color, there are several more to choose from.
$34, Baggu

Olsenhaus Wedge Booties – Pantone 249
“Bring comfortable shoes” is one of the cardinal rules of traveling. But we think you should also pack something a little more suitable for evening pleasures, like these bright-purple (Pantone 249) vegan booties by Olsenhaus.
On sale for $150.50, Cow Jones Industrials

Merino Silkweight Crew – Pantone 570
This top from Patagonia combines the technical merits of merino wool with travel-savvy style. The lightweight fabric is designed to keep you dry, comfortable and odor-free — it’s a mix of chlorine-free merino wool from non-mulesed Australian merino sheep and 100% recycled polyester.
$65, Patagonia

Slim Color Pant – Pantone 172
Give those black pants you usually travel with a rest. This deep orange (Pantone 172) slim color pant is the perfect colorful travel companion. Each pair is handwoven in Romania and are absolutely unique (you can enter a special code located on the inside seam to find out how).
$145, Kaight

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Steal Michelle Williams on-screen style and channel your inner Marilyn with these figure-flattering, eco-savvy classics.

While she initially seemed an unlikely choice, Michelle Williams morphed seamlessly into the role of silver screen icon Marilyn Monroe. A performance which has, so far, earned her a third Oscar-nomination and a Golden Globe Award. Never known for her sex appeal, Williams is now embracing it fully, showing us all just how versatile a great actress can be. We love her own understated pixie haircut and cool, casual Brooklyn-style but thinks she shines especially bright in this Vogue editoral, shot by Annie Leibovitz. With some figure-flattering, eco-savvy classics, we an all channel our inner Marilyn.

High-waisted Pencil Skirt
This “Secretary Skirt” by Study puts a slight spin on the classic high-waisted pencil skirt by adding some interesting details. Made in New York, from 50% cotton and 50% recycled polyester.
$198, Juno & Jove

Fitted White Shirt
Made from 100% organic cotton, this “Shrunken Shirt” by Organic by John Patrick features double button pleated cuffs and French seams. Tuck it into your skirt and leave a few buttons open at the top.
$198, Juno & Jove

Sexy Undies
Just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there. We’re pretty sure that Marilyn (or Michelle) would not have walked out the door without some hot-looking undies underneath that outfit. This set is by Clare Bare, a Brooklyn based designer specializing in eco-friendly lingerie made from bamboo jersey and vintage fabric. All of her pieces are made locally using sustainable design practices, and are structured to flatter your body in a natural way without the use of constrictive hardware.
Gigi Bralette, $52 & Gigi Garter Hot Short, $50, both Clare Bare

Black Eyeliner
Nothing is more crucial to re-creating than a good eyeliner. This matte, satin-finish liner by Alima is easy to apply and contains nothing but 100% pure, BDIH certified, luxurious mineral pigments.
$11, FutureNatural 

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